HB 1994 Summary

• Establishes a shade and fruit tree program in the Department of Education to increase tree canopy on school campuses and reduce temperature effects from climate change.

• Program may utilize existing agriculture and natural resource programs in schools to educate students and propagate native shade trees and fruit trees for planting across all department schools.

• Program authorized to support schools with infrastructure and supplies for tree nurseries, oversee tree variety selection appropriate to each school's climate, and encourage student participation in tree care.

• Appropriates funds from general revenues for fiscal year 2022-2023 to administer the shade and fruit tree program and establish one full-time arborist position to manage the tree inventory statewide.

• Effective date is July 1, 2050.